Try experimenting with a lighter hair color when the weather starts warming up. It can be time-consuming and expensive to visit a salon. Applying Lemon juice and letting your hair sit in the sun would be cheaper and more accessible. It’s possible to do this while reading or working on your computer. Is multitasking done to perfection? Yes, please.
The lemon-juice trick is not new, but the recent interest in natural skin and hair care may be due to the current focus. This article will cover if this trick works, whether it is a viable alternative for at-home and in-salon color treatments, and how to take care of your hair using either lemon juice or conventional dye.
Does Lemon Juice Lighten Hair?
It’s possible. It’s possible.
According to, hair changes color after exposure to UV rays due to damage caused by these rays. If you’re a lighter hair type, it is more likely that this will happen. You may remember as a child how your hair would become sun-bleached in the summer.
Sun and lemon juice are the best combinations for maximum results. Schipani says that lemon juice intensifies the effects of the sun on hair. The lemon’s acids break down the hair’s cuticle, allowing sun rays to penetrate more deeply.
Jenny Liu, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. This method of lightening your hair could be more efficient. It takes too long and only produces mediocre outcomes, says Liu.
Is it safe and effective?
No research has been done on the safety or effectiveness of using lemon to lighten hair. Lemon juice and UV work well, with a few exceptions. However, you may not achieve the desired look, which is not the best practice. Dr. Liu says that the problem is unpredictable outcomes. “Naturally that’s how coloring works.” The process involves removing the protective layer on the hair to reveal a new color.
Lemon juice and sunlight will not produce the color you want if your hair is darker. If your hair has already been highlighted, how can you use lemon juice to make it even more vibrant? Liu warns that you may end up with a brassy appearance.
Schipani concurs: “Naturally blond hair is the only base that will likely have the desired brightening effects,” she says. You’ll either not notice any difference or get the brassiness Liu mentions.
Research shows that UV rays can also cause hair to dry out and become more fragile. UV rays may fade the color of your hair if it is already dyed. You could be doing more harm to your hair than good. Schipani says combining UV rays and lemon juice acids can cause your hair to become faded, dry, and brittle.
Is natural better for hair color?
Lemon juice is appealing because it is a fruit that seems more natural. You may be concerned about regular hair dye’s safety. The American Cancer Society states, “Most studies did not find a strong connection between hair dye and cancer but more research was needed.”
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also points out that your scalp absorbs some chemicals from hair dye. Experts today give the green light to dyeing hair during pregnancy. Always consult your ob/gyn to get specific advice.
Liu also reminds us that lemon juice is not exempt from chemicals. She says that the compounds in lemon are also chemicals and that natural ingredients may cause more problems than synthetic ones. A September 2019 editorial of JAMA Derm stated that “natural” is not always synonymous with safer or more effective. Natural Products contain botanical extracts, which can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and reactions when combined with sun exposure.
What is a particular example? Past research found that the combination of some citrus juices, including lemon, and UV exposure from the sun can cause phytophotodermatitis. It is sometimes called “margarita dermatitis” because it tends to appear on the hands after spilling the citrusy boozy beverage.
How to safely lighten your hair
These four tips will help you safely lighten your hair.
Take a box to the Pros (or bring one home)
Liu has no suggestions for ‘natural ways’ to lighten the hair. She says, “I don’t recommend playing chemist in your home. There are many affordable and readily available coloring products at drugstores.” You’re better off getting a kit to color at home or booking an appointment with a salon.
A professional colorist and stylist can color your hair because they know exactly what they are doing, and they will also give you advice on the best color and product to use for your hair based on your hair’s texture, color, and health.
Less is More
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests more subtle changes using a home coloring kit. They recommend purchasing a color within three shades instead of going very blonde if you are a dark brunette or vice versa. Any more drastic changes will cause more damage. It’s better to leave it to the professionals for the most safe and predictable results.
A color correction at home can take more time and cost than done in a salon. Schipani says this also means more processing of the hair, which is already compromised.
Watch for Reactions
The AAD recommends that you stop dying your hair and consult a dermatologist if you experience any symptoms: rash, itching, burning, or swelling.
Take Care of Your Color
Schipani says that specific shampoos and conditioners, as well as hair masks designed for hair colored with dyes, help preserve your hair’s color and promote its health by restoring moisture.
Keep to professional hair-lightening methods.
If you don’t have light blonde hair, the combination of lemon juice and the sun may not produce the desired results. It’s usually best to use professional products or go to a salon. I haven’t heard or seen many people using lemon juice to lighten their skin. Schipani believes that professionals are more active on social media, and they post videos explaining the risks associated with different lightening methods at home.